A functional kitchen is crucial for holiday meals. Don't wait until the last minute to discover an issue on your holiday morning. Our Camden maintenance team is here to help before your holiday! Here are some quick tips to do before the holiday season!

Photo Courtesy of Camden Victory Park in Dallas, TX

• Test Your Oven:

  Run your oven at a high temperature (around 400°F) for 15-20 minutes. Check that it heats evenly and that any pre-heating indicators (lights/beeps) are working correctly. If you notice strange smells or inconsistent heating, contact the maintenance team right away. We would be more than happy to check this out for you to ensure you can cook your delicious meals for your guests.

• Check the Dishwasher:

  Run a cycle to confirm it's draining properly and clean dishes effectively. Clear any food debris from the filter at the bottom of the unit. Checking the filter is an easy step you can take to ensure nothing gets clogged!

• Clean the Fridge and Freezer:

  Make space for all those holiday leftovers and groceries. Check the temperature settings to ensure they are keeping food safely chilled. Packing the fridge or freezer to the brim can cause it not to work properly. Your fridge/freezer needs air-flow to circulate ensuring everything stays nice and cool/frozen. I’ve had this happen to me, and it’s helpful to check how things are placed to ensure they have enough airflow!

• Inspect Smoke Detectors:

  Test the smoke alarms in your kitchen area and throughout the apartment. A working detector is your best defense against a potential cooking fire. If your smoke detector is beeping, place a work order to have it checked for you; sometimes the battery needs to be changed.

• Prioritize Electrical Safety:

  Avoid overloading circuits by not running too many high-wattage appliances (like an air fryer and a microwave) on the same outlet or circuit simultaneously. Unplug any small appliances when not in use to prevent potential fire hazards.

• Plan Your Cooking Schedule:

  Coordinate which appliances you will use and when, to ensure a smooth workflow and prevent power issues. This helps you avoid having an oven, a stovetop, and two countertop appliances running at once. You do not want your oven to go out while you are cooking your delicious meal!

Photo Courtesy of Camden Henderson in Dallas, TX

By taking a few moments now to prepare, you can spend the holidays focusing on what truly matters: making memories with loved ones. Happy Holidays from your Camden Team!